Nation Bids an Emotional Farewell to Khaleda Zia as Thousands Attend Janaza in Dhaka

Dhaka, Dec 2025 : Dhaka witnessed an outpouring of grief and reverence on Wednesday as people from all walks of life gathered in overwhelming numbers to attend the namaz-e-janaza of former prime minister and Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia. The funeral prayer was held at the South Plaza of the Jatiya Sangsad complex, transforming Manik Mia Avenue into a sea of mourners paying their final respects to one of the country’s most influential political figures.

From the early hours of the day, long queues began forming across Dhaka. Roads connecting Dhanmondi-32, Asad Gate, Karwan Bazar and surrounding areas were packed with people standing patiently for hours. Many carried party flags and placards, while others stood silently in prayer, reflecting the somber mood of the occasion.

The massive turnout was not limited to ground-level streets. Mourners were seen standing on elevated expressways, flyovers, and rooftops of nearby buildings in an effort to witness the janaza proceedings. The scale of attendance highlighted Khaleda Zia’s enduring influence across generations and social groups.

Simultaneously, Chittagong University (CU) organised a ‘gayebana janaza’ and doa mahfil in her memory. Prayers for the salvation of her soul were held at various places of worship across the campus, including mosques, temples, churches and pagodas. A separate doa mahfil was scheduled after Asr prayers at the central mosque under the initiative of the Chittagong University Central Students’ Union (CUCSU).

The janaza in Dhaka was led by Abu Daud Muhammad Mamun, khatib of the central mosque, as mourners stood shoulder to shoulder in solemn unity. Elderly citizens, women, and young people alike were seen visibly emotional, many wiping away tears as they waited to offer prayers.

Addressing the gathering before the janaza, BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman appealed to the public to pray for his mother. Introducing himself as Khaleda Zia’s eldest son, he said that if anyone had financial claims or grievances against her, they should reach out to him directly. He also offered an apology on her behalf to anyone who may have been hurt by her actions during her lifetime and prayed that Allah grants her eternal peace in Jannatul Ferdous.

Following the prayers, Chittagong University Vice-Chancellor Prof Yeahia Akhter said that Allah forgives those who are loved by people, expressing hope that Khaleda Zia would be granted the highest place in paradise. CUCSU General Secretary Saeed Bin Habib described her as a patriotic leader who stood firmly against injustice even during challenging political times.

University officials, teachers, students, political leaders and citizens from across the country joined in prayer, marking a deeply emotional farewell to a leader whose political legacy left a lasting imprint on Bangladesh’s history.

Team Maverick.

Tribute from Team Maverick

A life of courage, conviction, and service comes to rest, but its legacy lives on. Her leadership, resilience, and unwavering voice for the people will be remembered with respect and gratitude. May her soul rest in peace, and may her journey continue to inspire generations.

— Team Maverick